Levi Batchelor speaks on his goals and aspirations for the featherweight division after deciding to vacate the bantamweight title back in August of this year.
Background:
Welsh amateur Levi Batchelor carried an undefeated record in the bantamweight division, capturing the title back in December 2021. He looked to become double champ as he faced off against a seasoned amateur in Ieuan Mackenzie in the featherweight division. Levi came up short in this bout, losing via unanimous decision.
After this, Batchelor decided to vacate his bantamweight title and set his sights on the 145lbs division. He plans to remain here for the rest of his amateur career. The Shore MMA prospect stated in a recent social media post “my full focus is now at featherweight, I’ve fell short at this weight and don’t want an easy ride”.
Recent activity:
Since his last fight in Cage Warriors Academy, Levi has been active and competing in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Competitions. Batchelor currently holds a purple belt in BJJ, after being promoted back in July 2021. He recently captured a bronze medal in the UKBJJA Welsh Nationals.
We sat down with Levi for an insight into his goals and aspirations for his new venture into the featherweight division. This comes just five weeks out until the next Cage Warriors Academy show, where Levi is keen to get on the card and currently looking for a matchup.
Interview With Levi Batchelor
How are you feeling about moving up to the featherweight division after such a dominant run at Bantamweight?
“To be honest its not too much different. The people I’m fighting aren’t really oversized to me, I don’t feel like I’m giving up a size or strength advantage. I feel like its going be a good test to match me against new boys.”
What changes, if any, have you made to your training transitioning up a weight class?
“Not much has changed to be honest, my preparation always stays the same. My diet has changed slightly and strength work, but apart from that, sparring and everything else is the same.
What’s next for you in the 145lb division? You’ve already held a title at Bantamweight, are you looking to do the same at featherweight?
“Yeah so I obviously fought Ieuan Mackenzie for the title back in June, unfortunately I fell short there. I’m looking to rack up a few wins in the division and then avenge my loss and become champion at this weight.”
Levi Batchelor Talks Shore MMA
Shore MMA is home to multiple successful Welsh fighters (Such as UFC bantamweight Jack “the tank” Shore) what can you learn from training alongside these elite level fighters?
“Experience is a big thing. They know what it takes to be at the highest level of the sport. Bret has been in the high ranks of the UFC, obviously Jack is now as well. The knowledge passed down to me as an amateur from that group of 1% fighters will push me up levels.”
What can fans expect from your next fight? Are you looking to make a statement?
“100%, I’m coming off a loss and I’m not too happy with my last performance. It didn’t work how I envisioned, and I didn’t adapt how I should have. I want to make those adaptions during the fight next time and use this as a learning curve. “
Any final thoughts surrounding your new venture into the featherweight division?
“Just that you learn who your true supporters are after coming off a loss, I’m grateful for everyone’s support with me now moving forward at featherweight. I’m looking to stay at the top of the division and I’m excited to see what the future holds. “
Levi finishes by thanking his coaches, friends, and family for the ongoing support into his new venture, watch this space!
Featured image credits to Cage Warriors Academy Wales
